2005-06 National Women's Team

Canada 1 vs Calgary AAA Midget Buffaloes 2

Tournament vs. AAA Midgets
Round Robin
Friday, September 23, 2005
Calgary, AB
Father David Bauer Arena

Canada’s National Women’s Team kicked off a series of 22 games this season against Midget AAA teams in Alberta on Friday night, facing the Calgary Buffaloes. It also marked Canada’s opening game in a weekend four-team tournament involving Canada, the Buffaloes, the Calgary Royals and the UFA Bisons. Over

100 fans were in attendance at Father David Bauer Olympic Arena, and the pace was quick right off the opening faceoff.  Kim St-Pierre came through on a couple early chances, and at the other end, Jacob Deserres had his hands full, as both teams went on the offensive.

Canada’s best chance came on the forecheck, as a loose puck came to Caroline Ouellette in the slot, but her shot sailed just wide.

Finally, the Buffaloes opened the score as Richard Small converted a Mitchell Smith pass at 15:48.  The Buffaloes also had the edge on the shot clock, with 13 shots to Canada’s 9.  After 20 minutes of play, the Calgary Buffaloes led 1-0 over Canada.

Canada took the play to the Buffaloes for much of the middle frame, and even seemed to have tied as Kate Weatherston got the puck by Deserres, but the goal disallowed as the referee had already lost sight of the puck.  Weatherston hit the post on another chance, while Jayna Hefford and Gina Kingsbury were stymied by Deserres in close.

Calgary added to its lead late in the period, as Mark Lyons put a loose puck by St-Pierre from in close, with assists going to Joel Stimson and Jared Collister.  Although Canada outshot the Buffaloes 7-4 in the second period, Canada was trailing 2-0 going into the third.

Canada once again started the third period on fire, and had numerous chances.  Finally, Gillian Apps deflected a Becky Kellar shot from the point, and Canada had closed the gap to 2-1.  Despite pressing late, and getting a power play, Canada couldn’t draw even and came out on the short end to the Buffaloes 2-1.  Canada outshot the Buffaloes 29-27.